Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of cats, dogs, and humans. Generally, they can suck blood from any bird or mammal. Fleas are physically tiny, only up to 1/8 of an inch long, making it quite challenging to spot them. They are dark brown or reddish and have strong hind legs that enable them to jump as high as eight inches. They have six legs and parts of the mouth that will allow them to pierce their hosts' skin.
When you suspect you have a flea infestation, the only wise thing to do is contact Pacific Pest Management for effective pest control in San Mateo. We will come to your rescue, help you destroy these little parasites, and prevent them from settling in your home again. This article will delve into the flea pest control matter and expand your knowledge about this insect.
How To Tell If You're Dealing With A Flea Infestation In Your Home
Several signs can help you know that your San Mateo home has a flea infestation, and it's time to seek professional pest control services in your area. You may notice white or black particles, which could be eggs or flea dirt. Your pets might be scratching themselves excessively, have pale gums, or develop bald spots, red patches, or wounds. You may also see fleas jumping in your carpet or on your pet.
As with most pests, a flea infestation can also make your life unbearable because you will constantly worry about your pet's health and make frequent vet visits. Therefore, if you notice any of the above signs, consider seeking professional help immediately from a pest control provider and embark on eliminating fleas from your home.
How Fleas Can Be Harmful To Both People And Pets
Fleas can spread many diseases among animals and human beings. Some of the most common are:
- Rickettsia: The signs of this bacterial disease are muscle pain, headache, and high temperatures.
- Tularemia or rabbit fever: This is a dangerous condition that fleas can transmit to humans through water, food, or touching a sick animal.
- Dipylidium caninum: This is a tapeworm that can cause weight loss, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
- Bubonic plague: Now rare and treatable, this is a deadly disease that nearly wiped out humanity in the 14th century.
- Bartonella: This is a disease passed on to cats and dogs. Scientists usually link it to seizures, eye inflammation, and heart conditions.
- Flea allergy dermatitis: This condition is caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva. It causes the dog or cat to scratch itself excessively, leading to welts, irritation, swelling, and broken skin.
- Anemia: Fleas can suck large quantities of blood from pets over time. The fleas can feed on the blood faster than the animal’s ability to create more red blood cells, and naturally replace the lost blood. Thus, the pets might develop anemia, which can be lethal to older pets, kittens, and puppies.
If you notice any of these symptoms above, don't hesitate to seek professional help from a vet and a pest control company. If you delay, things will only get worse.
The Best Way To Completely Eliminate A Flea Infestation
Fortunately, you can feel relieved because help is within reach if you are dealing with a flea infestation problem. First, wash your pet with soap dish solution or dog or cat flea shampoo if the pet is older than 12 months. Remove the remaining fleas with a flea comb. Be sure to vacuum your home and wipe surfaces regularly. Wash your pet's bedding, paying special attention to where the pet frequents.
To completely eliminate a flea infestation, contact a reputable pest control company like Pacific Pest Management to help you eliminate all the fleas, including eggs and larvae.
Five Naturally Effective Ways To Prevent Future Flea Infestations
If you know how to prevent a flea infestation from occurring again, you will save yourself time, money, and stress. Here are some tips to help you do this:
- Regularly vacuum your home and focus on your pet's favorite spots. Remember to dispose of the dirt in the vacuum bag since it might contain flea larvae and eggs.
- Ensure that your home is always clean.
- Clean your upholstered furniture, curtains, and carpet using the steaming method.
- Wash your bedding and all fabrics in your home with hot water and dry them on high heat.
- Give your pets a flea bath and use a flea preventive. Occasionally, run a flea comb through their fur.
These tips can help you prevent fleas from ruining your life. All you have to do is implement them and incorporate them into your daily routine. A home should be where you are the happiest and most comfortable, and these strategies can help you achieve that.
At Pacific Pest Management, we offer reliable flea treatment for your home. We have effective methods to get rid of not just the adult fleas, but even the flea eggs and larvae. We will also ensure that the fleas can't lay any more eggs in your home and continue to terrorize your pets. Protect your home and everyone in it and give us a call for more information on our flea control services.